Help me choose yarn for my first BIG project!

#1

I’ve been watching the board for the last few weeks, but this is my first post. May I say what a nice, ethusiastic group of people you are! And Amy, if it wasn’t for your videos, I may have given up knitting entirely!! I took a beginning class at a LYS, but once I got home, I forgot everything! It was so nice to have your videos as a source.

Now for the big question. I have two projects for which I need to order yarn. The first is a felted project and I found some great yarn on KnitPicks. The second project is a baby blanket for a friend. I’ve chosen a blanket in the Boye Taught Myself Knitting book. It has a garter stich edge and checkerboard pattern with knit and purl blocks. It calls for two strands of a worsted weight yarn. Any recommendations? I think I would prefer cotton because babies can be messy and I want mom to be able to machine wash. I thought about the shine worsted, but I’m not familiar with Modal. Does it pill?

I would prefer to order from Knit Picks, but if you have any other reasonably priced ideas, I have an open mind! Thanks!

#2

I think knit picks crayon would be great for a baby blanket. It is only DK wt, but since it’s a blanket, you don’t have to be as exact about the gauge. Plus you could always add a few sts if needed. Not sure about the Shine, I know a lot of people here like it so maybe someone else will comment.

A lot of people use acrylic for afghans and blankets since it’s washable and inexpensive.

#3

Welcome to the forum!

I really like Wendy Velvet Touch because it is super soft and easy to care for.

Probably not the lowest cost option out there ($8.50 MSRP), but I’ve seen it for a bit less on other sites (www.woolneedlework.com has it for $6.19).

Whatever you choose, I’m sure the blanket will be fabulous and SOOOO appreciated by the recipient!! Good luck!

Lynn

#4

I am currently working on a baby blanket too and I opted to use Bernat Cotton Tots. It is a nice soft cotton and it appears to be a worsted weight. I got it at my local Hobby Lobby store, but Bernat is a national company so I’m sure you’d be able to find it some where!

#5

If I were to do another baby blanket, I would use Caron Simply Soft. Its acrylic, so washable, and it works up nicely and is super soft. Also the price is right!